NEW DELHI (Diya TV) — Rajpal Yadav, the beloved actor known for his standout comic performances in Bollywood hits like Hungama, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Dhol, has shared candid insights into his decision to exit politics and his ongoing efforts to break away from repetitive roles in the film industry.
Yadav, who launched his political party—the Sarva Sambhav Party (SSP)—nearly a decade ago, stepped back from politics in 2019. Speaking to ANI, he explained that his decision was deeply influenced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s environmental initiatives, which aligned with his passions. “Jal, jungle, zameen, paryavaran, pahad—these were my areas of passion. I realized that the kind of changes I aspired to make were already being implemented by Modiji,” he said.
He cited Modi’s One Earth, One Family, One Future campaign as a pivotal moment. “He united citizens to fight against all odds. That gave me peace of mind to leave politics,” Yadav added. His remarks reflect a rare departure from the typically contentious narratives around celebrity involvement in Indian politics.
Yadav emphasized that balancing politics with a career in cinema proved too demanding. “It’s difficult to do both jobs—acting and politics—together. Both demand full-time commitment. And kala [art] is my first love. That’s where I feel at home,” he said, reiterating his lifelong dedication to the performing arts.
This decision places Yadav among a group of Bollywood figures—such as Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, and Urmila Matondkar—who have dipped their toes into politics but ultimately returned to their cinematic roots. His comments offer a rare look into the personal and professional calculations actors must navigate when stepping into public service.
Beyond politics, Yadav is also challenging his long-standing image as a comic relief specialist. Despite winning widespread acclaim for his comedic timing, the actor is pushing for more diverse roles. “I try to avoid characters of the same mentality,” he said. “If I keep playing similar roles, I’m not doing justice to my craft. I look for variety in every script.”
His stance underscores a larger issue in the Indian film industry—typecasting. For years, Yadav’s performances have stood out in ensemble casts, often providing memorable comic interludes. However, his latest comments make clear that he’s eager to expand his repertoire and take on roles that challenge him artistically.
Rajpal Yadav’s journey from stage to screen to the political arena and back highlights both the possibilities and limitations faced by artists in India. While he briefly considered public service as a vehicle for change, it’s clear that his true passion remains cinema.
“I’m happiest when I’m acting,” Yadav concluded. “That’s where I can truly express myself and connect with people.”
